A Modern Look at Scandinavian Design

The Modern Furniture Store in McMahons Point offers a fresh approach to Scandinavian design in Australia.

Photography: Kai Leishman

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Photography: Kai Leishman

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Photography: Kai Leishman

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Published on 08 July 2014

by Rebecca Slater

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For lovers of Scandinavian design, the days of staring longingly through shop windows may be over. “At the heart of our business is the Scandinavian design ethos; beautiful and functional objects should not only be affordable to the wealthy, but to all,” says Michael Josephson. He and his wife Melissa are the team behind The Modern Furniture Store, which has just opened its doors on Union Street in McMahons Point.

The Modern is the couple’s response to what they saw as a fundamental problem with the Scandinavian furniture market in Australia. “With so many pieces becoming ‘collectable’, the intended purpose of the furniture; to be used and enjoyed daily was becoming less realistic,” says Michael. Their determination to address this issue led them to form a number of partnerships with family owned Danish furniture factories. “By going direct to the source we can bring traditionally manufactured Scandinavian furniture to Australia at more affordable prices.”

The two-storey corner building is presented like a Scandinavian dream home, with products tastefully arranged in separate kitchen, bedroom, dining and living spaces.

Signature pieces include The Modern Dining Table in solid European oak, the elm-and-leather-topped Writer’s Desk, The Glass Oval Coffee Table and Curved Back Armchair.

In the kitchen you’ll find benchtops and cupboards displaying a stylish collection of homewares, from the functional, minimalist cookware of Höganäs and modern wooden utensils of Scanwood, to the sleek range of ceramics and glassware from Muuto and Iittala.

“We also have a strong partnership with the design wunderkinds Marimekko,” says Michael. And there’s no doubt the popular Finnish brand looks right at home in the store. Living spaces inside are brightened by Marimekko’s signature range of patterned textiles, striking ceramics and wardrobes filled with the brand’s clothing for customers to try on.

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